For 2025 Get Online Week, we had the pleasure of hosting a very special event in collaboration with Year 9 students from Pascoe Vale Girls College.
The goal was simple: support older community members to build confidence in navigating the digital world. But what unfolded was something far more meaningful.
We paired up students with participants, smartphones in hand, notes being jotted down, gentle conversations unfolding. There was laughter, curiosity, and that lovely quiet focus that happens when two people are genuinely learning from one another.
What made the day memorable wasn’t just the practical skills gained (how to use apps, organise photos, or understand online forms), the real magic came from the exchange.
Our over-50s participants showed openness, patience, and a willingness to try new things, even when technology can feel overwhelming. The Pascoe Vale Girls students brought confidence, clarity, and a natural digital fluency, but also empathy, respect, and leadership beyond their years.
Two generations met in the middle, both left with new skills, and new perspectives.
This is lifelong learning at its best: neighbours supporting neighbours, stories being shared, and different strengths being recognised.
We are incredibly proud of the PV Girls students for the way they handled the day with maturity, kindness, and enthusiasm. And we are equally proud of our participants who continue to show that learning has no age limit.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved.
We look forward to more of these exchanges in the future!
If you’ve ever watched a movie and and thought “I wonder how they did that?” then this course is for you.
Let’s Shoot offers a fun, practical introduction to the skills and technologies used in today’s screen and multimedia industries.
Across the sessions, participants will gain hands-on experience in:
No expensive gear required, we’ll be using smartphone cameras, free editing software, and DIY techniques to make film production accessible to everyone.
The course is facilitated by a local filmmaker who brings fresh, real-world insights into the creative process. Participants will get a behind-the-scenes look at what happens on a film set, learn about different roles and career pathways, and gain confidence using technology in a creative way.
By the end of the course, learners will have the opportunity to plan, shoot, and edit their own short media piece – a chance to showcase their imagination, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
You’ll not only walk away with a completed project, but also with practical and transferrable skills in communication, collaboration, and creative decision-making; valuable in any workplace or study pathway.
This course is ideal for:
This program is FREE for anyone aged 16 and over, making it a fantastic opportunity to try something new, meet others with shared interests, and start building your creative portfolio.
On completion, learners will have the option to pursue a Certificate II in Creative Industries through TAFE, continuing to develop their technical and creative skills. This course provides an excellent stepping stone for anyone curious about film, media, or digital production careers.
When: Thursday 20 & 27 November, 12pm – 3pm
Cost: FREE! Just book with the link
What to bring: Your smartphone/device
Where: Sussex Neighbourhood House – 7 Prospect Street, Pascoe Vale 3044
These sessions are a wonderful opportunity to explore the rich traditions, textiles, and flavours that make Indian culture so unique, all in a welcoming and community-focused setting.
The saree is one of India’s most iconic garments – elegant, versatile, and deeply rooted in cultural expression.
In this interactive workshop, Anusha will guide participants through the traditional and modern techniques of saree draping, sharing stories from across India’s diverse fashion traditions.
You’ll learn how to tie, pleat, and wrap a saree with confidence, and discover the meaning and artistry behind different styles. Expect live demonstrations, Q&A, and photo opportunities to capture your beautiful results.
Saturday 8 November
10am – 12pm
Please wear fitting leggings or trousers and a plain t-shirt
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a time of joy, family, and of course, delicious food!
Join us to learn the art of Indian home cooking, the kind that’s passed down through generations and shared during celebrations.
Across two sessions, you’ll discover how to use traditional spices to create fresh, flavourful dishes beyond what you’d find in a restaurant.
Come along and explore the flavours, techniques, and stories behind Indian festive food.
Both workshops are free and offer a chance to learn, create, and celebrate, connecting people through culture, tradition, and shared experience. Whether you’re interested in food, fashion, or simply trying something new, we’d love for you to join us.
Booking essential!
Use the links above or call us to secure your place 9354 2210.
Prepare your garden for summer even if it doesn’t feel like it yet!
It might still feel like winter with these cool, wet days, but now’s actually the perfect time to get your garden ready for summer. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can help your plants not only survive, but thrive through Melbourne’s warmer months ahead.
Join us for our Prepare Your Garden for Summer workshop and learn simple, practical ways to keep your garden healthy and resilient when the heat sets in.
This hands-on session will cover:
There’ll also be plenty of time for questions and troubleshooting, plus a guided look at how these methods are applied in our very own community garden.
Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, this workshop will leave you feeling inspired and ready to make the most of your garden this summer.
Book your spot now and get ahead of the season!
Join us for Play Your Way, a free drop-in event where children can explore, crate, and connect through a variety of playful activities designed to spark imagination and joy.
Wednesday 22 October
3pm to 5pm
At Sussex Neighbourhood House – 7 Prospect St, Pascoe Vale
No need to book – just drop in any time between 3 and 5pm and play your way!
This year’s Children’s Week theme is “Everyone should know about children’s rights”.
At SNH, we believe every child has the right to play, learn, and express themselves in a safe, inclusive, and joyful environment. Events like Play Your Way celebrate that belief by encouraging creativity, confidence, choice, and community connection.
Come along and join the fun!
While our AGM was underway, our incredible volunteers were representing SNH at the 2025 Merri-bek Community Awards where we were proud to receive a High Commendation for the Environmental Sustainability Achievement Award.
This recognition highlights years of grassroots effort from volunteers, partners, and community members who have worked hand-in-hand to make sustainable living more accessible, practical, and community-led.
Over the past four years, SNH has expanded its sustainability initiatives across Pascoe Vale and beyond: from the community garden and recycling collections, to the Pascoe Vale Food Collective and Repair Cafe. These projects, along with partnerships like the Merri-bek E-bike Library, Merri Community Shed, and Jesuit Ecological Hub, have inspired change across the community by showing how small actions can create big impact.
At the heart of this success are our dedicated garden volunteers – Rob, Cheryl, Peter, and Jeanette – whose hard work and passion have transformed our grounds into a thriving, welcoming space that grows both produce and connection.
“Together, these collaborative efforts strengthen local action on climate and waste, foster community engagement, and create practical pathways for reducing environmental impact in Merri-bek” – from the award submission.
This High Commendation is a reflection of a community that truly cares. One where neighbours share knowledge, repair instead of replace, and support one another to live more sustainably.
Congratulations to our volunteers and partners. Your hands have built something lasting, and your work continues to inspire everyone at Sussex.
On Wednesday 15 October, SNH held its 2025 AGM, bringing together members, partners, and friends to celebrate a year of community conneciton and to introduce our Strategic Plan 2026-2029.
The evening reflected the true heart of the House; a place built by people who care, and sustained by the shared values of inclusion, learning, and belonging. We were delighted to be joined by Ben from Inner North Community Foundation, and Uzma from Celebrating and Connecting Cultures, who helped us mark the occasion with warmth and encouragement.
One of the evening’s most meaningful moments was celebrating Claire Martin, whose 20 years of service to SNH have shaped the organisation we know today.
From her first day volunteering in 2005, to her leadership as Chair of the Committee, Claire has given her time, energy, and heart to this community. Her journey, captured beautifully in her speech and presentation, tells the story of two decades of transformation, teamwork, and purpose.
Claire reflected on how the House has grown from a small community hub to a thriving centre of learning and connection.
“It wasn’t just about getting things done, it was about how we do it together. The future is not something that simply arrives; it’s something we shape, together.”
In recognition of her extraordinary contribution, we proudly announce the naming of the “Claire Martin Room”, a lasting tribute to her leadership and the spirit of welcome she’s fostered for so many years.
Claire’s speech
The photo presentation accompanying the speech
The new Strategic Plan 2026-2029 builds on this legacy, focusing on community connection, partnerships, people and processes. Together, we’ll continue to strengthen Sussex Neighbourhood House as a place where every person feels they belong, can grow, and can contribute to a vibrant and connected neighbourhood.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, both in person and online, to celebrate another remarkable year at Sussex 💚
Alongside our usual team of friendly repairers, we’re celebrating Seniors Month with a free morning tea and a pop-up Pilates session led by our new instructor, Bec. It’s the perfect chance to connect, enjoy a cuppa, and try something new while supporting sustainable living.
This month, our repair line-up includes:
The Repair Cafe is all about reducing waste, saving money, and building community connections. Whether you’ve got a toaster on the blink, trousers needing stitches, or just want to enjoy the friendly atmosphere, everyone is welcome.
Come along, bring something to repair (or simply yourself!), and celebrate the creativity and resilience of our community this Seniors Month.
7 Prospect Street, Pascoe Vale 3044
We know that using phones, tablets, and computers can feel overwhelming at times, especially when technology changes so quickly. That’s why we’re inviting people aged 50 and over to join us for a special Lunch & Learn session designed to make learning digital skills simple, social, and fun.
This event is set up like a relaxed cafe, with a welcoming atmosphere and a free light lunch provided. You’ll be paired one-on-one with a local high school mentor, who can guide you at your own pace and answer your questions.
Whether you’d like to learn how to:
Our student mentors are here to help!
You’re welcome to bring your own phone, tablet, or laptop along, or use one of the devices we’ll have available on the day.
This is more than just a learning session. It’s an opportunity to connect with others in your community, share a meal, and build confidence in a supportive environment. No question is too small, and everyone is welcome.
Date: Wednesday 15 October
Time: 12:30pm – 2:30pm
Location: Sussex Neighbourhood House – 7 Prospect St, Pascoe Vale 3044
We know many of the people who would benefit most from this event may not see it online. If you have parents, grandparents, neighbours or friends who would enjoy this session, please invite them along or help spread the word!
Our Mat in the Vale x Contrology Garage sessions are designed to be welcoming and inclusive. You don’t need to know anything about Pilates before stepping onto the mat. Just bring along your yoga mat (or use ours), and a water bottle, and you’ll be guided through exercises that balance strength, mobility, and mindful movement.
Classes are open to all levels, making them a great choice whether you’re looking to try something new, return to exercise after a break, or simply maintain your regular practice in a friendly, community-focused setting.
The classes are led by Bec from Contrology Garage, a long-time Pascoe Vale local with over 20 years’ experience in the fitness industry. Bec is passionate about making Pilates accessible for everyone, with a particular focus on women’s health from teens through to post-menopause and beyond.
As a clinical exercise physiology student, trained teacher, and behavioural change expert, Bec brings not only technical knowledge but also a strong understanding of how to support a wide range of abilities. Her approach blends form, function, and fun, ensuring you feel both supported and challenged in class.
6 October – 1 December 2025
Mondays
10:30am to 11:30am
7 Prospect St, Pascoe Vale
Bookings are open now – secure your place and join us on the mat!